Since turning 21, I made it my mission to visit somewhere new every birthday.

Some of the places on the list include London, Paris, Amsterdam; you know, the major cities in Europe. Well it looks like I don’t have to bother now.

This video tells me all I need to know about the cities – in 4 minutes. Michael Farkas has shared his 26-day trip across Europe, visiting seven countries and ten cities.

What I really like about it is he’s not just shot the pretty scenery or the must see attractions, but he’s also captured everyday life. The sights and sounds of quaint side streets, the hustle and bustle, street art and street performers; they’re all here giving you a better understanding of cities. Anyone else spot the Golden Elvis in the video?

There’s also the jazzy music which accompanies and suits every city too…

If you had 26 days to travel, where would you go? Tell me in the comments section below.

On beautiful sunny days like this, it’s inevitable that our thoughts drift from the stuffy 9-5 to dreams about hitting the open road, and what better place to put a pedal to the metal than in the grand ol’ US of A?

Here are some of the places we would visit if we were able to do the great American road trip:

Navajo Bridge, Arizona

Image by Frank Kovalchek

This magnificent steel structure stretches over Colarado River’s Marble Canyon. It is a truly spectacular sight, and if you find yourself driving a car in the Grand Canyon area, I highly recommend you pay it a visit.

There are two bridges, and while they look fairly alike, they were actually opened over 65 years apart. The original bridge was erected in 1929, but was replaced in 1995 with a wider structure that could cope with modern day traffic. However, the original bridge still stands today, so pedestrians can admire the amazing view of the river some 143m beneath.

Heceta Head Lighthouse, Oregon

Image by John Fowler

If you’re driving about Oregon and fancy a decent postcard picture, then head to the coast where you can capture one of the most photographed sites in the state: the Heceta Head Lighthouse.

The 17m tall structure was built in 1895, and can shine a beam visable for 34km, making it the strongest light on the Oregon coast. Of course, it attracts more than just boats. Every year, hundreds of tourists flock to the site to take beautiful pictures just like the one above.

The natural mineral springs maintain a temperature of around 39 – 43C, and the surrounding areas are stunning. Add that to the fact there are staff on hand to dish out massages and other theraputic treatments, and it makes it the perfect place to relax after a hard day’s driving!

The World’s Largest Pistachio Nut, New Mexico

Before you ask – no, it’s not a real pistachio. However, this huge steel structure is a real feat of engineering for a mere foodstuff replica. It stands over 9 metres tall and has a concrete base nearly 3 metres deep.

The nut stands outsideMcGinn’s Pistachio Tree Ranch, which sells a mouthwatering selection of pistachio products. The red chilli pistachios are a firm favourite, but if you fancy something a bit different, why not try the lemon-lime flavour?

Trees of Mystery, California

Image by John Atherton

The Trees of Mystery is a great little hiking trail for those who want to break away from the driver’s seat for a while. Babe the Ox (pictured above) will greet you at the entrance, and inside you will find trees that have twisted and contorted into the most fantastic shapes.

There is also a free Native American museum and a cafe on site. If you can’t be bothered hiking to see the best of what the California Redwoods have to offer, never fear! A nifty little skytrail will take you around the key spots for no effort whatsoever!

Top tips for car road trips:

– Be spontaneous. Sure, plan a rough route, but resist the temptation to plan a rigid timetable. You never know where your trip will take you.

– Do all the boring stuff you have to do with your car to make sure it is in good nick. Get it serviced, andcompare car insuranceto make sure you are fully covered. You don’t want your trip ruined by an expensive car repair.

– Stock up on car snacks to keep you going through the long drives. Trail mix, bottled water and boiled sweets are great road trip fodder. But of course, keep your apetite up for those delicious roadside cafes!

Find the world’s best spots for horse racing and head out for a holiday at the track.

For hundreds of years, horse racing has been a popular sport and no matter where you are in the world, the opportunity to get involved is never far off. Spectators come by the thousands to watch and bet on the horses, and the atmosphere on and off the track has a reputation for being both fun and exciting.

Whether you’re after flat racing, steeplechasing or harness racing, our list of top horse racing destinations can help get your holiday out the gate.

Image courtesy of vegaseddie on Flickr

Mauritius

Even a small island can have world class sport – the famous Champ de Mars racecourse is the oldest of its kind in the southern hemisphere, and boasts both an impressive history and an iconic setting for visitors to enjoy in some of the warmest temperatures on the globe.

Inaugurated by the Mauritius Turf Club in 1812, since its opening the racecourse has regularly attracted crowds of 20,000 or more who reach the island for a holiday on Mauritius flightsto take part. Each year there are four classic events – the Duchess of York Cup, Barbé Cup, Maiden Cup and Duke of York Cup.

England

For the best in English horse racing, there could be no better destination than the iconic Ascot Racecourse. Founded in 1711 by Queen Anne, Ascot Racecourse is a cornerstone of English horseracing and is recognised around the world for its Flat racing and lavish, sophisticated events.

Just six miles from Windsor Castle, Ascot is a favourite of the Royal Family, and each year the prestigious Royal Ascot draws large crowds from around the country who dress in their Sunday best for the races and rub elbows with the likes of HM Queen Elizabeth II and the rest of the royal family.

France

Visit the city of love and stop along the banks of the Seine River at the Longchamp Racecourse. From its first race in 1857, Longchamp has attracted artists and dignitaries, and the annual Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe is the highlight of the racing calendar for both locals and visitors.

What’s more, the beautifully manicured lawns and hedges make Longchamp a particularly inviting place, and between the races visitors can enjoy a picnic in the shade or visit one of the many food and beverage stands on the grounds.

United States

Find a bit of southern flare at Churchill Downs. Located in Louisville, Kentucky, Churchill Downs is one of the most famous racecourses in the United States and is known for the annual Kentucky Derby and Kentucky Oaks which combines horse racing with elegant parties and special events. Planning your visit? Be sure to dress to impress, as the dress code for the Derby is “cocktail chic”.

While undoubtedly among the most famous courses in the world, this list above only scratches the surface. All over the globe you can find race tracks of all shapes and sizes, whether you’re looking for some causal weekend betting or a full-blown race experience.

What are your favourite horse racing destinations? Let us know in the comments below!

Ireland is comprised of 32 counties with 26 in The Republic with 6 in Northern Ireland. Each has a rich history and plenty to offer visitors.

It’s a shame then that most opt for the most obvious tourists spots before enjoying a Guinness in Dublin. If you’re planning a trip to the Emerald Isle then we have some great advice from some wonderful bloggers who have been there and done it all before.

So next time you visit and get off the plane atDublin Airport, don’t forget to explore beyond the immediate and discover more of the real Ireland with these fantastic suggestions.

Jody Halsted fromIreland with Kids

When I am contacted by families planning their first trip to Ireland I recommend they get out of Dublin and head to the Southwest part of the country. Killarneyis one of the most kid-friendly towns in Ireland. Dozens of bed & breakfasts happily play host to families, serving thin Irish pancakes along side the full Irish breakfast. One of our favorite B&Bs is Mystical Rose.

Image via Arrr!

Surrounding Killarney are dozens of incredible sites and activities. Killarney National Park is over 25,000 acres of wide open spaces perfect for biking, walking or taking a ride in a jaunting cart. Not far from Killarney, along N22, is Kennedy’s Pet Farm where children can get close to cuddly puppies, goats, deer and bunnies. Indoor and outdoor play areas guarantee plenty of kid friendly active play.

Of course Killarney makes a great base for some of Ireland’s “must do” activities: a ring of Kerry Tour and day trips to Dingle, the Cliffs of Moher, the Rock of Cashel and Bunratty Castle.

Corey Taratuta fromIrish Fireside

Image via Irish Typepad

I always recommend spending a few days in some of Ireland’s inland counties. Most visitors only pass through the inner parts of the Emerald Isle on their way to coastal destinations, so those who take the time to stop are treated to some often-missed treasures.

In County Kilkenny, you can eat your way through a lovely artisanfood trail. A tour of nearby County Carlow’s gardens bursts with color any time of year but is especially vibrant in spring and summer. The ancient royal sites in County Roscommon once rivaled the Hill of Tara in importance. The County Fermanagh lakelandsare a joy by land but a true adventure by boat.

Dave Coates from Travelwyse

Northern Ireland has a lot to offer outside the city limits. If you’ve reached the North via Belfast, you’re in luck. You can take the coast road through Antrim, on a good day one of the most beautiful drives in the country, never more than a few yards away from the Irish Sea.

Image via TS Drown

Once you’re up there you ought to talk a walk around the causeway coast. I’ve been round many’s a time in all kinds of weather, occasionally in the same day. If it’s sunny, grand; if it’s chucking it down, it’s one of the most spectacular stretches of landscape in Ireland. No matter what time of year you go, bring a raincoat.

While you’re in the area, you could always pop round to Bushmills distillery. If your game happens to be golf, you’re only minutes away from Royal Portrush itself, oft-frequented by our own Rory McIlroy. The course also has one of the most fun/challenging pitch and putt courses I’ve ever been round. Finally, head round to Portstewart for a selection of the best ice cream shops in the world. As ever, bring a coat.

Have you discovered some hidden wonders in Ireland? Tell us about them in the comments section below or come chat to us on Twitter @Travelwyse.

It’s Friday – it’s warm and sunny and I’ve got a craving for a burger and a beer. I’d usually grab some mince, garlic, chilli and burger buns from the shop and make them myself but I’m feeling rather lazy today.

I’ve ventured to numerous burger joints around Edinburgh so it’s difficult to choose a favourite, hence researching my favourite burger bars around Edinburgh, for your reading enjoyment. If you’re ever in Edinburgh I’d suggest visiting one of these, your life depends on it.

Photo by Chris Radley via Pinterest

Edinburgh is a haven for burger lovers, a real foodie’s dream! If you don’t find a dedicated burger joint then most bars and restaurants will have a burger or two on their menu. I’ve got some definite favourites that deliver perfectly scrumptious burgers on every visit. But it’s not just about the burger, it’s about the bar and the location too.

Holyrood 9A is located on Holyrood Road, near Arthur’s Seat and the Royal Mile.The best thing about the burgers here is the variety: pork burgers, venison burgers, haggis burgers, a number of vegetarian burgers and much more! Combined with some salty shoestring fries, purple coleslaw and a pint from one of their 20 beer pumps and you’re set! If that doesn’t ignite your taste buds, they have sundaes too, yes they do.The bar opened about three years ago and has really made a name for itself, especially during the Fringe Comedy Festival where you’re lucky to get in let alone get a seat.

Photo via The Cambridge Bar’s Facebook page

The next bar is much more established with the locals of Edinburgh and they have secured a place in history with their burgers.The Cambridge Baris located on Young Street behind Edinburgh’s high street. It’s hidden away on a small back-street which isn’t stumbled upon often by tourists but is always rammed with locals of Edinburgh demanded their award winning burgers. The bar is always packed with people watching sports and Sundays are particularly busy. The Cambridge bar also has a great variety of different burgers but my favourite way to get a burger here is a little unorthodox.

If you get a burger without a bun you get this massive salad with gorgeous dressing, it’s so much better than a bun if you’re in the mood! If you get a burger here, get onion rings and some dips, you won’t be disappointed.

The Gourmet Burger Kitchen hasn’t been open long and my boyfriend and I accidentally stumbled upon it when one of our favourite restaurants was fully booked for the night. It’s located on George Street so is probably pretty busy with the tourists. This place has an American diner-style thing going on, you order and pay for your food and drink at a counter.

There’s a great choice of burgers here too, lots of weird ones actually including the Kiwi which has beetroot, egg, pineapple, cheddar and salad. As you’d imagine from this burger, the GBK gets its heritage from New Zealand so you’ll find some awesome Kiwi beers and drinks on offer to go alongside your Kiwi burger.

Photo courtesy of Katey, Edinburgh Eats

Last but absolutely not least isBell’s Diner,this is my absolute favourite place to go for a burger. Bell’s Diner is located in the unique suburb of Edinburgh, Stockbridge – a little foodies haven full of boutique cafes, delis and markets.
Bell’s Diner has been open in Stockbridge as long as anyone can remember, it seems like it’salwaysbeen there. It’s seemingly always had the same menu too!
They pride themselves on simplicity, well made beef burgers with a selection of flavoured butters (garlic butter, mustard butter etc), good fries and salad. When your burger arrives you’ll receive a platter of sauces and relishes which really make the burger special.

The diner only has seven tables and booking is ESSENTIAL,it is fully booked most nights. Bell’s Diner also have the best milkshakes I’ve ever tasting, including the unusual lime milkshake – it works, trust me. The diner is surrounded by a variety of lovely pubs for an after-dinner tipple. The best burger joint EVER!

Before I moved to Edinburgh I wasn’t really bothered about cooking or food but this city has a way of drawing you in and getting you excited about food. It’s a city that really does have everything: culture, music, history and it isn’t spoilt by food chains which is unusual for a capital city.

Please, please, please let us know if you’ve visited any of these burger joints or if you have any other burger-related recommendations. We’d love to hear from you and the comment section below is wide open.

Sometimes eating out can get a bit boring, the same old boring tables and chairs, human waiters. How dull. If you’re looking for something a little more interesting, maybe you should try one of these:

Hospitalis, Riga, Latvia

You could be forgiven for heading here if you were unwell, but you’ll find that you’ve stumbled into a hospital themed restaurant. Waitresses dressed as nurses will serve drink to you in flasks more at home in a laboratory and food on dishes native to operating theatres; the barmen look like mad scientists, and you can even be spoon fed your meal whilst being tied up in a straight-jacket.

Image: jasminejennyjen

Greenhouse, Amsterdam, Netherlands

In 2001 the greenhouse at the Amsterdam Municipal Nursery, dating back to 1926, was converted into a restaurant by Michelin Star chef Gert Jan Hageman. It has a large greenhouse for growing tropical produce, and a field near Amsterdam ensures that only the freshest herbs, vegetables and edible flowers make it to the dining table.

Dark Restaurant, Beijing, China

Your meal is served to you by waiters wearing night vision goggles, and you’re not allowed to use your phone as they don’t allow ANY light in here. It’s a bit of a mystery trying to work out what you’re eating, and stumbling your way to the toilets may be challenge.

Modern Toilet, Taipei, Taiwan

It would certainly appear less sterile than Hospitalis, but this is probably one of the more niche dining experiences you’ll have. You sit at your table on a toilet bowl, curry is served to you in a mini version of your seat and you’ll be served food that looks like it should belong in the restaurant’s “facilities.” Speaking of which, you might want to make sure you’re not going to ruin somebody’s lunch when you go to relieve yourself.

Image: riNux

Dinner in the Sky, all over the world

Originating in Belgium, this is a phenomenon that took-off, as it were, a couple of years ago. A table which seats eight people, costing £850 per head, you’re strapped into a chair and the whole shebang is hoisted 50 metres into the air by a giant crane. Presumably you’d maybe want to check the weather forecast before you book, and the price doesn’t include your meal.

Kaybukia Tavern, Tokyo, Japan

This is your typical restaurant in Tokyo serving local cuisine – apart from the fact that the waiters are a couple of Macaque monkeys called Yat-chan and Fuku-chan. I wonder what they’ll accept as a tip?

Dalu Robot Restaurant, Jinan, China

Those of a science fiction persuasion will love this. Opened in 2010, it is a restaurant staffed entirely by robots. The faithful servants circulate around the restaurant pushing trolleys of food and drink. They stop moving when a sensor pick-up that their path is blocked by a customer, who can then choose something to eat.

El Diablo, Lanzarote

If you were struggling to define what might constitute an extreme barbeque, this is it. On top of the Islote de Hilario volcano, the restaurant itself is perched over a well of lava. That should be enough cooking power to last them, well, forever.

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, North Male Atoll, Maldives

This is a truly unique experience, fine dining in the world’s first all glass undersea restaurant. 16-feet below sea level, you’ll get 180-degree views of the marine life this spectacular environment has to offer while sipping champagne and eating the finest Western fusion cuisine. After longflights to Male, Rangali Island where the restaurant is situated, is just a 30-minute ride away in a sea plane. To eat here is almost the only reason you need to go!

Courtesy of Christian Steen

Kalin Tavern, Obrezje, Slovenia

Nothing like sparking an international incident to keep your dinner exciting. 180-years-old and renowned for its roast pork, one half of the Kalin Tavern is in Croatia and the other half is in Slovenia – with separate doors into each half. This wouldn’t be a problem in many places apart from the fact that only Slovenia is in the EU. Stumble out the wrong door and Croatian border control might want a chat.

Have you eaten in any of these restaurants? Or maybe there’s an even stranger dining experience I’ve not mentioned? Tell me about it in the comments below!

Sunshine, salt water breezes, fresh seafood, quaint fishing villages and stunning port cities all wrapped up into one exhilarating holiday; could anything sound more wonderful? Chartered sailing holidays may sound like something for the rich and famous, and that’s because they are. However, if I’ve learned anything in my 25-years it’s that expensive things are usually awesome, and I’m sure sailing holidays are no different.

So, start saving now for the ultimate sailing holiday along one of the worlds most beautiful coastlines.

The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

The Eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea pretty much has it all- crystal clear blue waters, frequent sunshine, quaint historic villages and stunning mountains that rise up from sandy beaches. During your journey, you can stop-off at trendy Hvar island for an espresso and some ice cream at one of its harbour cafes. Or, spend a few nights in Split for a taste of Croatia’s metropolitan nightlife. Of course, don’t forget Dubrovnik; the historic walled city nestled into the hills of Southern Croatia.

For more information about sailing the Dalmatian Coast, check outDalmatian Coast Sailing.

Image by Alex E. Proimos via Flickr

Nova Scotia, Canada

One of the most pristine coastlines in the world, the shores of Nova Scotia are truly a sight to behold. The region has a long enduring maritime culture, and pleasant port towns like Lunenburg exemplify the beauty of Nova Scotia’s east coast. For an unparalleled urban sailing adventure, go for a cruise around the province’s capital of Halifax.

For more information about sailing in Nova Scotia, check out Star Chaters or Murphy’s Cable Wharf.

Imga via Nyss.com

Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique

For a truly rustic sailing experience, you can’t do much better than a cruise along Mozambique’s Quirimbas Archipelago in a traditionaldhow boat. As you journey along the African coastline, you can take a pit-stop to go snorkelling in the bright blue waters or go fishing for you dinner. After a long day on the water, you can find a sandy beach to camp on for the night and enjoy a fresh meal prepared by your on-board chef.

For more information about sailing in Mozambique, check outMozambique Dhow Safaris.

Image by babasteve via Flickr

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Located in Eastern Vietnam, Ha Long Bay is one of the prettiest and most unique places to sail in the world. With its tall, limestone islands, hidden caves, peaceful inlets and mysterious grottos, the legendary Ha Long Bay is like something out of an ancient myth. You can cruise around the Bay in a traditional East Asian ‘junk’ ship. Though these vessles may seem prehistoric on the outside, they’re very luxurious on the inside.

For more information about sailing in Ha Long Bay, check outIndochina Sails.

Image by David McKelvey via Flickr

Which sailing spot do you find most alluring? Let us know where in the world you’d like to go sailing in the comments section below.

For many people, battlefields hold an immense fascination. The knowledge that these unassuming stretches of ground were the scene of immense tragedy and destruction seems to captivate the minds of anyone interested in history or human drama.

This intense interest has led to the rise of battlefield tourism, a huge industry which specialises in tours of battlefields, cemeteries, memorials and related historic sites all around the world. It’s a form of travel particularly worth considering in the run-up to Remembrance Day on 11thNovember.

Battlefield tourism is subtly different fromwar tourism, which involves visiting active war zones – often at great personal risk – and usually has a touch of thrill-seeking or voyeurism about it. Battlefield tourism, on the other hand, focuses on historic battlefields where the fighting is long past, and is much more strongly linked to heritage and commemoration.

Still, it could be argued that battlefield tourism evolved out of war tourism, which was much more common in the 18thand 19thcentury than it is today. In fact, in the past it was quite fashionable for members of the elite, including ladies, to attend a battle as a fun day out, watching the action unfold from a safe (or not so safe) distance.

The earliest battlefield tourists were those who did not attend the actual battle, but hastened to view the scene almost as soon as the fighting ceased. There’s a kind of overlap with war tourism in that frequently the battlefields had not yet been cleared of bodies, rubble, and unexploded ammunition, a process which could take months or years. The view was pretty grim, and there was still an element of danger to it.

Battlefield visitors (often on organised tours) have beenreported following the Battle of Waterloo in 1815and the battles of the American Civil War in the mid-19thcentury. Their motivation at this stage seems chiefly to have been curiosity or an interest in souvenir hunting. However, battlefield tourism really gained momentum in the wake of the First World War, at which point the visitors’ motivations grew considerably more complex.

The first wave of pilgrims to the battlefields of Northern Europe were mostly relatives who came to search for the grave of a loved one. The purpose of their visit was to mourn, seek closure, and honour their dead. Some paid their own way, while others went through charities such as theSt Barnabas Society, which subsidised no-frills visits to overseas war graves or laid wreaths on behalf of those unable to travel.

By the late 1920s, the St Barnabas Society’s tours had been edged out by a range of commercial tour operators catering to the public’s intense interest in the battlefields. By this point bereaved family members had been joined by ex-serviceman coming to pay homage to fallen comrades or find closure of their own, as well as members of the public who simply wished to see and experience the atmosphere in the various locations of which they’d heard so much.

The practice of battlefield tourism grew along with the tourism industry itself, with greater access to affordable travel creating the potential for tours to ever more far-flung battlefields. Today, a quick internet search revealscountless tour companiesthat specialise in guided visits to cemeteries, battlefields, and other locations of historic interest around the world. Some of the most popular destinations include the battlefields of Northern France and Belgium, including the beaches of Normandy, and the Civil War battlefields of the United States.

While a few people may seek a morbid thrill in paying these visits, the mood of modern battlefield tourism seems to be predominantly one of respectful observance. Especially around Remembrance Day or the anniversaries of important battles, many people pay visits to commemorate the dead and reflect on their immense sacrifice. Others wish to remember the contributions of specific family members who fought and perhaps died in these wars. Others simply hope to make history seem real, and gain greater perspective on the events that shaped our society today.

Have you visited a famous battlefield or war cemetery? What were your impressions?

Although the UK is not well known for its snow sport potential, Scotland definitely has some distinct advantages as a Ski destination.

For winter sports enthusiasts living in Britain, indulging in their hobby often means a costly and troublesome trip overseas. While winter sports resorts in the Alps are certainly very special, they are far from the only option for those looking to slide down a mountain.

CC ‘bob the lomond’ (Flickr)

The ski areas in Scotland are not as large as those in other countries. While this means that it may not be as rewarding for a long trip the ease of access means it is great for a short break, such as an impromptu weekend. What better way to liven up winter than a trip to the slopes?

The main winter sport hotspots in Scotland are Nevis Range, Glencoe, Glenshee, Cairngorn & The Lecht.
Prices are very competitive with beginners packages (covering equipment hire, lift passes and instruction) being available from under £55 pounds at the Nevis Range. Lift passes are generally in the £20 -£30 range for adults, while being much cheaper for juniors.

Skiing is very much dependent on there being not only snow, but also the right kind of snow. In recent seasons there has been an abundance at the Scottish resorts, while many continental resorts were left high and and dry. There has been a scheme where you can register for alerts as towhen is a good time to ski in Scotland.